Inertia-actuated valve assemblies as well as gas spring and gas damper assemblies, suspension systems and methods including same

ABSTRACT

An inertia-actuated valve assembly includes a valve housing, a valve body and a biasing element. The valve housing includes a groove that has an open end fluidically accessible from along one side thereof. The valve housing includes a flow channel extending therethrough in fluid communication with the groove from along an opposing side of the valve housing. The valve body is positioned within the groove of the valve housing such that the valve body and the valve housing are axially co-extensive along at least a portion thereof. The biasing element operatively engages the valve body and generates a biasing force urging the valve body in a first axial direction. The biasing force is greater than a predetermined dynamic gas pressure threshold value multiplied by a pressure area and is less than or approximately equal to a valve body mass multiplied by 2.5 times the nominal acceleration due to gravity.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/441,207, filed on Dec. 31, 2016, the subject matter of which ishereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The subject matter of the present disclosure broadly relates to the artof gas spring devices and, more particularly, to inertia-actuated valveassemblies dimensioned for use within gas spring assemblies that includea spring chamber and one or more additional chambers. In some cases,inertia-actuated valve assemblies can be included within gas spring andgas damper assemblies that include a spring chamber as well as a dampingchamber with an optional elongated passage in fluid communicationbetween the spring chamber and the damping chamber. Suspension systemsincluding one or more of such assemblies as well as methods of assemblyare also included.

The subject matter of the present disclosure may find particularapplication and use in conjunction with components for wheeled vehicles,and will be shown and described herein with reference thereto. However,it is to be appreciated that the subject matter of the presentdisclosure is also amenable to use in other applications andenvironments, and that the specific uses shown and described herein aremerely exemplary. For example, the subject matter of the presentdisclosure could be used in connection with gas spring and gas damperassemblies of non-wheeled vehicles, support structures, height adjustingsystems and actuators associated with industrial machinery, componentsthereof and/or other such equipment. Accordingly, the subject matter ofthe present disclosure is not intended to be limited to use associatedwith suspension systems of wheeled vehicles and/or components thereof.

Wheeled motor vehicles of most types and kinds include a sprung mass,such as a body or chassis, for example, and an unsprung mass, such astwo or more axles or other wheel-engaging members, for example, with asuspension system disposed therebetween. Typically, a suspension systemwill include a plurality of spring elements as well as a plurality ofdamping devices that together permit the sprung and unsprung masses ofthe vehicle to move in a somewhat controlled manner relative to oneanother. Generally, the plurality of spring elements function toaccommodate forces and loads associated with the operation and use ofthe vehicle, and the plurality of damping devices are operative todissipate undesired inputs and movements of the vehicle, particularlyduring dynamic operation thereof. Movement of the sprung and unsprungmasses toward one another is normally referred to in the art as jouncemotion while movement of the sprung and unsprung masses away from oneanother is commonly referred to in the art as rebound motion.

In many applications involving vehicle suspension systems, it may bedesirable to utilize spring elements that have as low of a spring rateas is practical, as the use of lower spring rate elements can provideimproved ride quality and comfort compared to spring elements havinghigher spring rates. That is, it is well understood in the art that theuse of spring elements having higher spring rates (i.e., stiffersprings) will transmit a greater magnitude of road inputs into thesprung mass of the vehicle and that this typically results in a rougher,less-comfortable ride. Whereas, the use of spring elements having lowerspring rates (i.e., softer, more-compliant springs) will transmit alesser amount of road inputs into the sprung mass and will, thus,provide a more comfortable ride.

Such suspension systems also commonly include one or more dampers ordamping components that are operative to dissipate energy associatedwith undesired inputs and movements of the sprung mass, such as roadinputs occurring under dynamic operation of a vehicle, for example.Typically, such dampers are liquid filled and operatively connectedbetween a sprung and unsprung mass, such as between a body and axle of avehicle, for example. One example of such damping components areconventional shock absorbers that are commonly used in vehiclesuspension systems.

In other arrangements, however, the dampers or damping components can beof a type and kind that utilizes gas rather than liquid as the workingmedium. In such known constructions, the gas damper portion permits gasflow between two or more volumes of pressurized gas, such as through oneor more orifices, as shown, for example, in U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2004/0124571, or through one or more valve ports, asshown, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,799. Generally, there is someresistance to the movement of pressurized gas through these passages orports, and this resistance acts to dissipate energy associated with thegas spring portion and thereby provide some measure of damping.

One factor that may be limiting the broader adoption and use of gasspring and gas damper assemblies may relate to the challenge ofbalancing desired performance levels with size and/or space limitationsassociated with the particular application and/or use for which the gasspring and gas damper assemblies are intended. As one example, motorizedvehicles commonly include significant packaging and/or space limitationsthat can reduce the area that is available adjacent the gas spring andgas damper assembly. As such, in some cases, a reduced volume ofpressurized gas may be used. In other cases, the desired volume ofpressurized gas may be provided in a remote location relative to the gasspring and gas damper assembly. In either case, some decrease in dampingperformance of conventional constructions may result.

Accordingly, it is desired to develop gas spring and gas damperassemblies as well as a suspension system including one or more of suchassemblies that overcome the foregoing and/or other difficultiesassociated with known constructions, and/or which may otherwise advancethe art of gas spring and gas damper assemblies as well as componentsthereof and suspension systems and methods including the same.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

One example of an inertia-actuated valve assembly in accordance with thesubject matter of the present disclosure can be dimensioned forsecurement along an associated end member of an associated gas springassembly. The inertia-actuated valve assembly can include a valvehousing, a valve body and a biasing element. The valve housing can bedimensioned for securement along the associated end member and in fixedrelation thereto. The valve housing can have a longitudinal axis and caninclude a housing wall portion extending peripherally about thelongitudinal axis with a first housing side and a second housing sidefacing opposite the first housing side. The valve housing can include agroove extending into housing wall portion from along the second sidesuch that the groove has an open end fluidically accessible from alongthe second side. The valve housing can include at least one flow channelextending through the housing wall portion and in fluid communicationwith the groove from along the first side of the valve housing. Thevalve body can extend peripherally about the axis and can be positionedwithin the groove of the valve housing such that the valve body and thevalve housing are axially co-extensive along at least a portion thereof.The valve body can have a valve body mass and a pressure area. Thebiasing element can operatively engage at least the valve body and cangenerate a biasing force operative to urge the valve body in a firstaxial direction toward the first side of the valve housing. The biasingforce can having a magnitude that is greater than a predetermineddynamic gas pressure threshold value multiplied by the pressure area.The predetermined dynamic gas pressure value can correspond to aninternal pressure experienced by the associated gas spring assemblyduring a predetermined condition of use. The biasing force can also havea magnitude that is less than or approximately equal to the valve bodymass multiplied by two and one-half times the nominal acceleration dueto gravity.

In some cases, an inertia-actuated valve assembly in accordance with theforegoing paragraph can include the spiral configuration of theelongated damping passage disposed in a plane oriented transverse to thelongitudinal axis.

One example of a gas spring assembly in accordance with the subjectmatter of the present disclosure can include a flexible spring memberhaving a longitudinal axis. The flexible spring member can include aflexible wall extending longitudinally between first and second ends andperipherally about the axis to at least partially define a springchamber. A first end member can be operatively secured to the first endof the flexible spring member such that a substantially fluid-tight sealis formed therebetween. A second end member can be disposed in spacedrelation to the first end member and can be operatively secured to thesecond end of the flexible spring member such that a substantiallyfluid-tight seal is formed therebetween. The second end member can atleast partially define an end member chamber. An inertia-actuated valveassembly according to either of the two foregoing paragraphs can beoperatively disposed along the second end member in fluid communicationbetween the spring chamber and the end member chamber.

In some cases, a gas spring assembly according to the foregoingparagraph can include a gas damper.

One example of a suspension system in accordance with the subject matterof the present disclosure can include a pressurized gas system thatincludes a pressurized gas source and a control device. The suspensionsystem can also include at least one gas spring and gas damper assemblyaccording to the two foregoing paragraphs. The at least one gas springand gas damper assembly can be disposed in fluid communication with thepressurized gas source through the control device such that pressurizedgas can be selectively transferred into and out of the spring chamber.

One example of a method of manufacturing a gas spring assembly inaccordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can includeproviding a flexible spring member having a longitudinal axis. Theflexible spring member can include a flexible wall extendinglongitudinally between first and second ends and peripherally about theaxis to at least partially define a spring chamber. The method can alsoinclude providing a first end member and securing the first end memberacross the first end of the flexible spring member such that asubstantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween. The method canfurther include providing a second end member and securing the secondend member across the second end of the flexible spring member such thata substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween. The second endmember can include an end member chamber. The method can also includeproviding an inertia-actuated valve assembly and operatively connectingthe valve assembly along the second end member in fluid communicationbetween the spring chamber and the end member chamber. Theinertia-actuated valve assembly can include a valve housing, a valvebody and a biasing element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of one example of a suspensionsystem of an associated vehicle that includes one or more gas spring andgas damper assemblies in accordance with the subject matter of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of one example of a gas spring and gasdamper assembly.

FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary gas spring and gasdamper assembly in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damperassembly in FIGS. 2 and 3.

FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damperassembly in FIGS. 2-4.

FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the exemplary gas spring and gasdamper assembly in FIGS. 2-5.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary gas spring andgas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-6 taken from along line 7-7 in FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 is a greatly enlarged view of the portion of the exemplary gasspring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-7 that is identified as Detail8 in FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary gas spring andgas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-8 taken from along line 9-9 in FIG. 4.

FIG. 10 is an exploded view, in partial cross section, of one portion ofthe gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-9.

FIG. 11 is an exploded view, in partial cross section, of anotherportion of the gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-10.

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of one example of an end plate of the gasspring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-11.

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of one example of an end member suchas is shown in FIGS. 2-11.

FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary end member in FIG.13.

FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the exemplary end member in FIGS. 13 and14.

FIG. 16 is a bottom plan view of the exemplary end member in FIGS.13-15.

FIG. 17 is a cross-section side view of the exemplary end member inFIGS. 13-16 taken from along line 17-17 in FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a cross-section side view of the exemplary end member inFIGS. 13-17 taken from along line 18-18 in FIG. 15.

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of one example of an end cap of anexemplary damper housing of a gas spring and gas damper assembly such asis shown in FIGS. 2-11.

FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary end cap in FIG.19.

FIG. 21 is a top plan view of the exemplary end cap in FIGS. 19 and 20.

FIG. 22 is a cross-section side view of the exemplary end cap in FIGS.19-21 taken from along line 22-22 in FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of another example of a gasspring and gas damper assembly.

FIG. 24 is a perpendicular cross-sectional side view of the exemplarygas spring and gas damper assembly in FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of an end member assembly such asin FIGS. 23 and 24, shown prior to assembly.

FIG. 26 is an enlarged view of the portion of the end member assembly inFIGS. 23-25 identified as Detail 26 in FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of the end member assembly inFIGS. 23-26 shown in an assembled condition.

FIG. 28 is an enlarged view of the portion of the end member assembly inFIGS. 23-27 identified as Detail 28 in FIG. 27.

FIG. 29 is a top perspective view of one example of an inertia-actuatedvalve assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the presentdisclosure dimensioned for use in operative association with an endmember of a gas spring and gas damper assembly.

FIG. 30 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary valve assemblyshown in FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a top plan view of the exemplary valve assembly shown inFIGS. 29 and 30.

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary valve assemblyin FIGS. 29-31 taken from along line 32-32 in FIG. 31 and shown in aclosed condition.

FIG. 33 is an enlarged view of the portion of the exemplary valveassembly in FIGS. 29-32 identified as Detail 33 in FIG. 32.

FIG. 34 is the cross-sectional side view of the exemplary valve assemblyin FIG. 32 shown in an open condition.

FIG. 35 is an enlarged view of the portion of the exemplary valveassembly in the open condition identified as Detail 35 in FIG. 34.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning now to the drawings, it is to be understood that the showingsare for purposes of illustrating examples of the subject matter of thepresent disclosure and that the drawings are not intended to belimiting. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the drawings are notto scale and that portions of certain features and/or elements may beexaggerated for purposes of clarity and/or ease of understanding.

FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a suspension system 100 disposedbetween a sprung mass, such as an associated vehicle body BDY, forexample, and an unsprung mass, such as an associated wheel WHL or anassociated axle AXL, for example, of an associated vehicle VHC. It willbe appreciated that any one or more of the components of the suspensionsystem can be operatively connected between the sprung and unsprungmasses of the associated vehicle in any suitable manner.

For example, in the arrangement shown, suspension system 100 can includea plurality of gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102 that areoperatively connected between the sprung and unsprung masses of thevehicle. Depending on desired performance characteristics and/or otherfactors, the suspension system may, in some cases, also include dampingmembers (not shown) of a typical construction that are providedseparately from assemblies 102 and secured between the sprung andunsprung masses in a conventional manner. In a preferred arrangement,however, gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102 will be sized,configured and operative to provide the desired performancecharacteristics for the suspension system without the use of additionaldamping members (e.g., conventional struts or shock absorbers) that areseparately provided.

In the arrangement shown in FIG. 1, suspension system 100 includes fourgas spring and gas damper assemblies 102, one of which is disposedtoward each corner of the associated vehicle adjacent a correspondingwheel WHL. However, it will be appreciated that any other suitablenumber of gas spring and gas damper assemblies could alternately be usedin any other configuration and/or arrangement. As shown in FIG. 1, gasspring and gas damper assemblies 102 are supported between axles AXL andbody BDY of associated vehicle VHC, and include a gas spring 104 and agas damper 106. It will be recognized that gas springs 104 are shown anddescribed in connection with FIG. 1 as being of a rolling lobe-typeconstruction. It is to be understood, however, that gas springassemblies of other types, kinds and/or constructions could alternatelybe used without departing from the subject matter of the presentdisclosure.

Suspension system 100 also includes a pressurized gas system 108operatively associated with the gas spring and gas damper assemblies forselectively supplying pressurized gas (e.g., air) thereto andselectively transferring pressurized gas therefrom. In the exemplaryembodiment shown in FIG. 1, pressurized gas system 108 includes apressurized gas source, such as a compressor 110, for example, forgenerating pressurized air or other gases. A control device, such as avalve assembly 112, for example, is shown as being in communication withcompressor 110 and can be of any suitable configuration or arrangement.In the exemplary embodiment shown, valve assembly 112 includes a valveblock 114 with a plurality of valves 116 supported thereon. Valveassembly 112 can also, optionally, include a suitable exhaust, such as amuffler 118, for example, for venting pressurized gas from the system.Optionally, pressurized gas system 108 can also include a reservoir 120in fluid communication with the compressor and/or valve assembly 112 andsuitable for storing pressurized gas.

Valve assembly 112 is in communication with gas springs 104 and/or gasdampers 106 of assemblies 102 through suitable gas transfer lines 122.As such, pressurized gas can be selectively transferred into and/or outof the gas springs and/or the gas dampers through valve assembly 112 byselectively operating valves 116, such as to alter or maintain vehicleheight at one or more corners of the vehicle, for example.

Suspension system 100 can also include a control system 124 that iscapable of communication with any one or more systems and/or components(not shown) of vehicle VHC and/or suspension system 100, such as forselective operation and/or control thereof. Control system 124 caninclude a controller or electronic control unit (ECU) 126communicatively coupled with compressor 110 and/or valve assembly 112,such as through a conductor or lead 128, for example, for selectiveoperation and control thereof, which can include supplying andexhausting pressurized gas to and/or from gas spring and damperassemblies 102. Controller 126 can be of any suitable type, kind and/orconfiguration.

Control system 124 can also, optionally, include one or more height (ordistance) sensing devices 130, such as, for example, may be operativelyassociated with the gas spring assemblies and capable of outputting orotherwise generating data, signals and/or other communications having arelation to a height of the gas spring assemblies or a distance betweenother components of the vehicle. Height sensing devices 130 can be incommunication with ECU 126, which can receive the height or distancesignals therefrom. The height sensing devices can be in communicationwith ECU 126 in any suitable manner, such as through conductors or leads132, for example. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the heightsensing devices can be of any suitable type, kind and/or construction,such as may operate using sound, pressure, light and/or electromagneticwaves, for example.

Having described an example of a suspension system (e.g., suspensionsystem 100) that can include gas spring and gas damper assemblies inaccordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, oneexample of a gas spring and gas damper assembly will now be described inconnection with FIGS. 2-11. As shown therein, one example of a gasspring and gas damper assembly AS1, such as may be suitable for use asone or more of gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102 in FIG. 1, forexample. Gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 is shown as including agas spring (or gas spring assembly) GS1, such as may correspond to oneof gas springs 104 in FIG. 1, for example, and a gas damper (or gasdamper assembly) GD1, such as may correspond to one of gas dampers 106in FIG. 1, for example. Gas spring assembly GS1 and gas damper assemblyGD1 can be operatively secured to one another and fluidically coupledwith one another in any suitable manner, such as is describedhereinafter, for example. A longitudinal axis AX extends lengthwisealong assembly AS1, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9.

Gas spring assembly GS1 can include a flexible spring member 200 thatcan extend peripherally around axis AX and can be secured betweenopposing end members (or end member assemblies) 300 and 400 in asubstantially fluid-tight manner such that a spring chamber 202 is atleast partially defined therebetween. Gas damper assembly GD1 caninclude a damper housing 500 that is operatively supported on or alongend member 400 and a damper rod assembly 600 that is operativelyassociated with damper housing 500. An end mount 700 can operativelyconnect damper rod assembly 600 with end member 300.

It will be appreciated that flexible spring member 200 can be of anysuitable size, shape, construction and/or configuration. Additionally,the flexible spring member can be of any type and/or kind, such as arolling lobe-type or convoluted bellows-type construction, for example.Flexible spring member 200 is shown in FIGS. 2-7, 9, 23 and 24 asincluding a flexible wall 204 that can be formed in any suitable mannerand from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example,the flexible wall can include one or more filament-reinforced,elastomeric plies or layers and/or one or more un-reinforced,elastomeric plies or layers. Typically, one or more filament-reinforced,elastomeric plies and one or more un-reinforced, elastomeric plies willbe used together and formed from a common elastomeric material, such asa synthetic rubber, a natural rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer. Inother cases, however, a combination of two or more different materials,two or more compounds of similar materials, or two or more grades of thesame material could be used.

Flexible wall 204 can extend in a generally longitudinal directionbetween opposing ends 206 and 208. Additionally, flexible wall 204 caninclude an outer surface 210 and an inner surface 212. The inner surfacecan at least partially define spring chamber 202 of gas spring assemblyGS1. Flexible wall 204 can include an outer or cover ply (notidentified) that at least partially forms outer surface 210. Flexiblewall 204 can also include an inner or liner ply (not identified) that atleast partially forms inner surface 212. In some cases, flexible wall204 can further include one or more reinforcing plies (not shown)disposed between outer and inner surfaces 210 and 212. The one or morereinforcing plies can be of any suitable construction and/orconfiguration. For example, the one or more reinforcing plies caninclude one or more lengths of filament material that are at leastpartially embedded therein. Additionally, it will be appreciated thatthe one or more lengths of filament material, if provided, can beoriented in any suitable manner. As one example, the flexible wall caninclude at least one layer or ply with lengths of filament materialoriented at one bias angle and at least one layer or ply with lengths offilament material oriented at an equal but opposite bias angle.

Flexible spring member 200 can include any feature or combination offeatures suitable for forming a substantially fluid-tight connectionwith end member 300 and/or end member 400. As one example, flexiblespring member 200 can include a mounting bead 214 disposed along end 206of flexible wall 204 and a mounting bead 216 disposed along end 208 ofthe flexible wall. In some cases, the mounting bead, if provided, can,optionally, include a reinforcing element, such as an endless, annularbead wire 218, for example.

Gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 can be disposed betweenassociated sprung and unsprung masses of an associated vehicle in anysuitable manner. For example, one component can be operatively connectedto the associated sprung mass with another component disposed toward andoperatively connected to the associated unsprung mass. As illustrated inFIG. 6, for example, end member 300 can be operatively disposed along afirst or upper structural component USC, such as associated vehicle bodyBDY in FIG. 1, for example, and can be secured thereon in any suitablemanner. As another example, damper housing 500 can be operativelydisposed along a second or lower structural component LSC, such as oneof associated axles AXL in FIG. 1, for example, and can be securedthereon in any suitable manner.

Additionally, it will be appreciated that the end members can be of anysuitable type, kind, construction and/or configuration, and can beoperatively connected or otherwise secured to the flexible spring memberin any suitable manner. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIGS. 2-4,6, 7 and 9, for example, end member 300 is of a type commonly referredto as a bead plate and includes an end member wall 302 with an innerwall portion 304 and an outer peripheral wall portion 306. End member300 is disposed along end 206 of flexible wall 204 with outer peripheralwall portion 306 crimped or otherwise deformed around at least a portionof mounting bead 214 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can beformed between flexible spring member 200 and end member 300. Inner wallportion 304 can have an approximately planar outer surface 308dimensioned to abuttingly engage an associated structural component(e.g., upper structural component USC). Inner wall portion 304 can alsohave an approximately planar inner surface 310 disposed in facingrelation to spring chamber 202.

As indicated above, end member 300 can be disposed in operativeengagement on or along first or upper structural component USC (FIG. 6),such as associated vehicle body BDY in FIG. 1, for example, and can besecured thereon in any suitable manner. For example, one or moresecurement devices, such as mounting studs 312, for example, can beincluded along end member 300. In some cases, mounting studs 312 caninclude a section 314 dimensioned for attachment to end member wall 302in a suitable manner, such as, for example, by way of a flowed-materialjoint (not shown) or a press-fit connection (not identified).

Additionally, mounting studs 312 can include a section 316 that extendsaxially from along section 314 and can include one or more helicalthreads 318. Section 316 can be dimensioned to extend throughcorresponding mounting holes HLS (FIG. 6) in upper structural componentUSC (FIG. 6) and can receive one or more securement devices (e.g.,threaded nuts) 320. Mounting studs 312 can also include a section 322that extends axially from along section 314 in a direction oppositesection 316. As such, section 322 can extend into spring chamber 202 andcan include one or more helical threads 324 dimensioned to receive oneor more threaded nuts or other securement devices, such as, for example,may be used to secure one or more devices and/or components of end mount700 on or along inside surface 310 of end member 300, for example.

Furthermore, one or more fluid communication ports or transfer passagescan optionally be provided to permit fluid communication with the springchamber, such as may be used for transferring pressurized gas intoand/or out of the spring chamber, for example. In some cases, a transferpassage (not shown) can extend through one or more of the mountingstuds. In other cases, such as is shown in FIGS. 2, 4 and 7, forexample, end member 300 can include a passage fitting 326 that can besecured on or along end member wall 302 in a substantially fluid-tightmanner, such as by way of a flowed-material joint 328, for example. Atransfer passage 330 can extend through end member wall 302 and passagefitting 326 that is in fluid communication with spring chamber 212. Itwill be appreciated, however, that any other suitable fluidcommunication arrangement could alternately be used.

End member 400 is shown as being disposed in axially-spaced relation toend member 300, and as including features associated with a type of endmember commonly referred to as a piston (or a roll-off piston). It willbe recognized that a wide variety of sizes, shapes, profiles and/orconfigurations can and have been used in forming end members of the typeand kind referred to as pistons or roll-off pistons, such as end member400, for example. As such, it will be appreciated that the walls and/orwall portions of the end member can be of any suitable shape, profileand/or configuration, such as may be useful to provide one or moredesired performance characteristics, for example, and that the profileshown in FIGS. 2-11 and 13-18 is merely exemplary.

End member 400 can extend lengthwise between opposing ends 402 and 404that are axially spaced from one another. End member 400 can include anend member wall 406 that can have a first or outer side wall portion 408that extends in a generally axial direction and includes an outsidesurface 410 and an inside surface 412. End member 400 can also include asecond or inner side wall portion 414 that also extends in a generallyaxial direction. Inner side wall portion 414 is spaced radially inwardfrom outer side wall portion 408 and includes an outside surface 416 andan inside surface 418. In a preferred arrangement, inside surface 418 ofinner side wall portion 414 can at least partially define an innercavity 420 within end member 400.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 2-11 and 13-18, end member 400includes an outer cavity 422 extending into the end member betweeninside surface 412 of outer side wall portion 408 and outside surface416 of inner side wall portion 414. In some cases, one or more supportwall portions 424 can extend between and operatively interconnect theouter and inner side wall portions. Additionally, in some cases, one ormore bosses or projections can be provided on or along the end memberwall, such as may be suitable for including one or more securementdevices and/or securement features. In the exemplary arrangement shownin FIGS. 2-11 and 13-18, for example, end member wall 406 can includeboss wall portions 426 that can be formed or otherwise disposed alongone or more of outer side wall portion 408, inner side wall portion 414and/or support wall portions 424, for example. In some cases, one ormore securement features (e.g., threaded passages) can extend into or beotherwise formed on or along the boss wall portions. In other cases, oneor more securement devices 428, such as threaded metal inserts, forexample, can be at least partially embedded within one of more of bosswall portions 426. It will be appreciated, however, that otherconfigurations and/or arrangements could alternately be used.

End member wall 406 can also include an end wall portion 430 that canextend across and/or between any combination of one or more of outerside wall portion 408, inner side wall portion 414 and/or support wallportions 424. End wall portion 430 can be oriented transverse to axis AXand can at least partially form a closed end of inner cavity 420 of theend member. Additionally, end wall portion 430 can include opposingsurfaces 432 and 434. As indicated above, it will be appreciated thatthe one or more end members of the gas spring and gas damper assemblycan be operatively connected or otherwise secured to the flexible springmember in any suitable manner. In the case of end member 400, end memberwall 406 can, for example, include an outer surface 436 that extendsperipherally about axis AX and is dimensioned to receive mounting bead216 disposed along end 208 of the flexible wall 204 such that asubstantially fluid-tight seal can be formed therebetween. In somecases, a retaining ridge 438 can project radially outward beyond outersurface 436 and can extend peripherally along at least a portionthereof, such as may assist in retaining end 208 of flexible wall 204 inabutting engagement on or along the end member.

In an assembled condition, outer surface 210 of flexible wall 204 can bedisposed in abutting engagement with outside surface 410 of outer sidewall portion 408. In such an arrangement, flexible wall 204 of flexiblespring member 200 can form a rolling lobe 220 along outside surface 410of outer side wall portion 408. As gas spring and gas damper assemblyAS1 is displaced between compressed and extended conditions, rollinglobe 220 can be displaced along outer surface 410 in a generallyconventional manner.

In some cases, a gas spring and gas damper assembly in accordance withthe subject matter of the present disclosure can include one or moreelongated gas damping passages through which pressurized gas can flow togenerate pressurized gas damping to dissipate kinetic energy acting onthe gas spring and gas damper assembly. It will be appreciated that suchone or more elongated gas damping passages can be of any suitable size,shape, configuration and/or arrangement. Additionally, it will beappreciated that any number of one or more features and/or componentscan be used, either alone or in combination with one another, to form orotherwise establish such one or more elongated gas damping passages.

Additionally, in some cases, a gas spring and gas damper assembly inaccordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can includeone or more elongated gas damping passages fluidically connected betweenthe spring chamber and one or more damping chambers or damping chamberportions. In such constructions, pressurized gas damping performanceexceeding that provided by conventional gas damping orifice designs canbe achieved through the use of such one or more elongated gas dampingpassages, particularly with respect to a given or otherwisepredetermined range of frequencies of vibration or other dynamic input.

Generally, the one or more elongated gas damping passages can bedimensioned such that pressurized gas flows into, out of and/orotherwise is displaced within the elongated gas damping passage orpassages. As a result, such pressurized gas flow can generatepressurized gas damping of vibrations and/or other dynamic inputs actingon the overall assembly and/or system. In a preferred arrangement, suchpressurized gas damping can be configured for or otherwise targeted todissipate vibrations and/or other dynamic inputs having a particular,predetermined natural frequency or within a particular, predeterminerange of frequencies.

Furthermore, in some cases, a gas spring and gas damper assembly inaccordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can includeone or more elongated gas damping passages in fluid communicationbetween the spring chamber and one or more damping chambers or dampingchamber portions. Differential pressure between the volumes can inducegas flow along at least a portion of the length of the elongated gasdamping passage. It will be appreciated that such movement of thepressurized gas within and/or through an elongated gas damping passagecan act to dissipate kinetic energy acting on the assembly and/orsystem.

It will be appreciated that the cross-sectional area and overall lengthof the elongated gas damping passage can be dimensioned, sized and/orotherwise configured to generate gas flow having sufficient mass andsufficient velocity to achieve the desired level of pressurized gasdamping. Additionally, in a preferred arrangement, the elongated gasdamping passages can be dimensioned, sized and/or otherwise configuredsuch that one or more performance characteristics, such as peak LossStiffness, for example, of the system occur at approximately a desiredor target frequency or otherwise within a desired or targeted frequencyrange. Non-limiting examples of targeted frequency ranges can includevibrations from 1-7 Hz, vibrations from 8-14 Hz and vibrations from15-25 Hz.

In the exemplary construction shown in FIGS. 7-10 and 13-18, end memberwall 406 of end member 400 can include a plurality of recesses 440 thatcan extend into end member wall 406 from along surface 432. Recesses 440are shown as being disposed in peripherally spaced relation to oneanother about axis AX. The recesses are also shown as being spacedradially outward from the axis toward outer surface 436 and varying insize and shape relative to one another. In a preferred arrangement,recesses 440 are blind recesses and include a bottom surface 442 suchthat the recesses do not extend or otherwise form a passage through endmember wall 406.

End member wall 406 of end member 400 can include an opening or passage444 extending through end wall portion 430 between surfaces 432 and 434.In a preferred arrangement, passage 444 can be oriented in approximatelyco-axial alignment with axis AX. Also, in a preferred arrangement,passage 444 can be dimensioned to receive and permit one or morecomponents of gas damper assembly GD1 to extend through end wall portion430, as discussed in greater detail below.

End member 400 can also include a passage or port 446 extending into andat least partially through end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406from along surface 432. In a preferred arrangement, passage 446 isdisposed radially outward of opening 444 and adjacent or otherwisetoward outer surface 436 of end wall portion 430. End member 400 canfurther include an elongated damping passage 448 extending into, throughor otherwise along at least a portion of end wall portion 430 of endmember wall 406. In a preferred arrangement, elongated damping passage448 has a first end 450 disposed in fluid communication with port 446and a second end 452 disposed radially inward of port 446. In othercases, the passage or port could be disposed radially inward adjacent orotherwise toward passage 444 with the second end of the elongateddamping passage disposed radially outward of the first end.

In either case, it will be appreciated that elongated damping passage448 can be of any suitable shape, form, configuration and/orarrangement. In a preferred arrangement, elongated damping passage 448can have a spiral-like or similar configuration. In such case, theelongated damping passage can be at least partially formed by a passagesurface 454 that has a cross-sectional profile. In some cases, thecross-sectional profile can vary along the length of the elongateddamping passage. In a other cases, however, the cross-sectional profilecan be of an approximately uniform size, shape and configuration alongthe length of the elongated damping passage, such as is shown in FIGS.7-10 and 16-18, for example. The cross-sectional profile is taken froman orientation that is normal, perpendicular or at least transverse tothe spiral-like path of the elongated damping passage. That is, thecross-sectional profile is oriented transverse to axis AX and issubstantially-continuously rotated about the axis with thecross-sectional profile substantially-continuously displaced radiallyoutward from adjacent axis AX to form the spiral-like configuration. Ina preferred arrangement, such rotation of the cross-sectional profile ofpassage surface 454 can occur in an approximately single plane such thatthe spiral-like configuration of elongated damping passage 448 isdisposed in a common plane that is oriented transverse to longitudinalaxis AX.

In some cases, the cross-sectional profile of passage surface 454 can beendless or otherwise fully enclosed. In such cases, the correspondingelongated damping passage can be substantially-entirely embedded withinthe end wall portion of the end member wall. In other cases, thecross-sectional profile of passage surface 454 can be open (i.e., notfully enclosed). In such cases, the corresponding elongated dampingpassage can be open along one or more surfaces of end wall portion 430of end member wall 406. For example, the cross-sectional profile ofpassage surface 454 is shown as having an approximately U-shapedcross-sectional configuration. As such, elongated damping passage 448 isformed within end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406 as an openchannel that is accessible from along surface 434 of the end wallportion. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurationsand/or arrangements could alternately be used. For example, across-sectional profile in a C-shaped configuration could be used.

With reference, now, to gas damper assembly GD1, damper housing 500 isoperatively engaged with end member 400 and at least partially defines adamping chamber 502 on, along and/or within at least a portion of endmember 400. Additionally, damper housing 500 secured on or along endmember 400 such that forces and loads acting on one of upper and lowerstructural components USC and LSC can be transmitted or otherwisecommunicated to the other of upper and lower structural components USCand LSC at least partially through gas spring and gas damper assemblyAS1.

Damper housing 500 can include or be otherwise formed from anycombination of one or more components and/or devices. For example,damper housing 500 can include a housing sleeve 504 that can be at leastpartially formed from a sleeve wall 506 that extends axially betweenopposing ends 508 and 510. Sleeve wall 506 can extend peripherally aboutaxis AX and can, in some case, have an approximately uniform wallthickness. Additionally, in some cases, sleeve wall 506 can have anapproximately circular cross-sectional profile such that the innersleeve is approximately cylindrical in overall shape. It will beappreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangementscould alternately be used. Additionally, sleeve wall 506 includes anouter surface 512 that extends substantially-continuously around andalong housing sleeve 504. In a preferred arrangement, sleeve wall 506 isdimensioned to be received within inner cavity 420 of end member 400with outer surface 512 disposed in facing relation to inside surface 418of inner side wall portion 414. Sleeve wall 506 can also include aninner surface 514 that extends substantially-continuously around andalong housing sleeve 504 and can at least partially define dampingchamber 502.

As discussed above, gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 isdisplaceable, during use in normal operation, between extended andcompressed conditions. During such displacement pressurized gas flowbetween spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 502 through elongateddamping passage 448 generates pressurized gas damping. In cases in whichthe cross-sectional profile of the elongated damping passage can beendless or otherwise fully enclosed such that the correspondingelongated damping passage is substantially-entirely embedded within theend wall portion of the end member wall. In other cases, thecross-sectional profile of elongated damping passage 448 can be open orotherwise not fully enclosed. In such cases, damper housing 500 caninclude an end plate 516 that can extend across and at least partiallyenclose elongated damping passage 448.

As shown in FIGS. 7-10 and 12, for example, end plate 516 can take theform of a substantially planar wall having an outer peripheral edge 518and opposing side surfaces 520 and 522. End plate 516 can also includean inner peripheral edge 524 that at least partially defines a hole oropening 526 extending therethrough. In a preferred arrangement, hole 526can be positioned approximately centrally on end plate 516 and can bedimensioned to receive and permit one or more components of gas damperassembly GD1 to extend through end wall portion 430, as discussed ingreater detail below. End plate 516 can also include a passage or port528 extending therethrough that is dimensioned for fluid communicationwith second end 452 of elongated damping passage 448. To aid in aligningport 528 with second end 452 of the elongated damping passage duringassembly and maintaining such an alignment during use, end plate 516 caninclude one or more indexing or alignment features that operativelyengage one or more other features and/or components of end member 400and/or damper housing 500. For example, end member 400 could include oneor more projections 456 or other indexing features that extend axiallyoutwardly from along surface 434 of end wall portion 430. End plate 516can include one or more indexing holes 530 that extend through the endplate and are cooperative with projections 456 to orient and align endplate 516 relative to end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406.Additionally, or as an alternative, one or more holes or openings couldbe included on or along the end wall portion of the end member wall, andone or more projections could be included on or along the end plate. Inany case, cooperative engagement of alignment or indexing features(e.g., projections 456) of end member 400 with alignment or indexingfeatures (e.g., indexing holes 530) of end plate 516 can aid in assemblyand assist in ensuring that port 528 and second end 452 of elongateddamping passage 448 are at least approximately aligned and in fluidcommunication with one another.

It will be appreciated that end plate 516 can be secured on or alongsurface 434 of end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406 in anysuitable manner and/or through the use of any combination of one or morefeatures and/or components. For example, end plate 516 can be disposedbetween end member 400 and housing sleeve 504 such that surface 520 isdisposed in facing relation with surface 434 of end wall portion 430. Insuch case, end 508 of housing sleeve 504 can abuttingly engage the endplate along outer peripheral edge 518 to retain the end plate inposition relative to the end wall portion of the end member wall.

Additionally, or in the alternative, damper housing 500 can include asupport ring 532 that can be secured on or along end wall portion 430 ofend member wall 406 in operative engagement with end plate 516 to atleast partially retain the end plate on or along surface 434 of the endwall portion. Support ring 532 can include an annular wall with a firstouter surface portion 534 having a first cross-sectional size ordimension that is cooperative with passage 444 in end wall portion 430of end member wall 406. Support ring 532 can also include a second outersurface portion 536 that is spaced axially from the first outer surfaceportion and has a second cross-sectional size or dimension that isgreater than the first cross-sectional size or dimension of first outersurface portion 534 such that a shoulder surface portion 538 extendsradially therebetween.

Support ring 532 can be installed on end wall portion 430 of end memberwall 406 with first outer surface portion 534 at least partiallydisposed within passage 444 and can be secured on the end wall portionin any suitable manner, such as by way of a threaded connection, apress-fit connection and/or a flowed-material joint, for example. Insuch case, support ring 532 can at least partially secure end plate 516on or along end wall portion 430. For example, first outer surfaceportion 534 can extend through opening 526 in end plate 516 such thatshoulder surface portion 538 can abuttingly engage the end plate alonginner peripheral edge 524. Support ring 532 can also include an innersurface 540 that at least partially defines a passage or opening 542extending through support ring 532 between opposing end surfaces 544 and546. In an installed condition, passage 542 dimensioned to receive andpermit one or more components of gas damper assembly GD1 to extendthrough end wall portion 430, as discussed in greater detail below.

In cases in which the cross-sectional profile of passage surface 454 isopen or otherwise not fully enclosed, it may be desirable substantiallyinhibit or at least reduce pressurized gas transfer between adjacentrings or other sections of elongated damping passage 448 along surface434. It will be appreciated that inhibiting or at least reducing suchundesirable pressurized gas transfer may promote pressurized gas flowalong elongated damping passage 448 and, thus, provide improved gasdamping performance. It will be appreciated that such undesirablepressurized gas transfer can be inhibited or otherwise reduced in anysuitable manner and through the use of any suitable components, featuresand/or elements. As one example, one or more sealing elements could bedisposed between surface 434 of end wall portion 430 and surface 520 ofend plate 516 to at least partially form a substantially fluid-tightseal therebetween. As another example, a flowed material joint could beformed between the surface of the end wall portion and the surface ofthe end plate. Such sealing arrangements are collectively schematicallyrepresented in FIG. 8 by dashed lines 548.

With reference, now, to FIGS. 2-7, 9, 11 and 19-22, damper housing 500can also include an end cap 550 operatively disposed along end 510 ofhousing sleeve 504 and secured thereto such that gas spring and gasdamper assembly AS1 can function to transfer forces and loads betweenupper and lower structural components USC and LSC, as discussed above.End cap 550 can be configured to secure gas spring and gas damperassembly AS1 on or along an associated structural component, such aslower structural component LSC, for example. It will be appreciated anysuitable combination of feature, elements and/or components can be usedto form such a connection. As one example, the end cap can include aspherical bearing or other similar component operatively connectedbetween the end cap mount and the associated structural component (e.g.,lower structural component LSC). As another example, end cap 550 caninclude an end cap wall 552 that includes a passage (not numbered)formed therethrough generally transverse to axis AX. End cap wall 552can function as an outer support element and an inner support element554 can be disposed within the passage. An elastomeric connector element556 can be permanently attached (i.e., inseparable without damage,destruction or material alteration of at least one of the componentparts) between end cap wall 552 and inner support element 554 to form anelastomeric bushing 558 suitable for pivotally mounting assembly AS1 onor along the associated structural component.

End cap wall 552 can include a base wall portion 560 orientedapproximately transverse to axis AX and a side wall portion 562 thatextends axially from along base wall portion 560 toward a distal edge564. Base wall portion 560 can have a base surface 566 and side wallportion 562 can have an inner side surface 568. Base wall portion 560and side wall portion 562 can at least partially define an end capcavity 570 that is dimensioned to receive end 510 of housing sleeve 504with outer surface 512 disposed in facing relation to inner side surface568 of side wall portion 562. In some cases, damper housing 500 can alsoinclude an end plate 572 in the form of a substantially planar wallhaving an outer peripheral edge 574 and opposing side surfaces 576 and578. It will be appreciated that end plate 572 can be secured on oralong end cap 550 in any suitable manner and/or through the use of anycombination of one or more features and/or components. For example, endplate 572 can be disposed between end cap 550 and housing sleeve 504such that side surface 578 is disposed in facing relation with basesurface 566 of end cap wall 552. In such case, end 510 of housing sleeve504 can abuttingly engage end plate 572 along outer peripheral edge 574to retain the end plate in position relative to end cap wall 552 of theend cap.

In a preferred arrangement, spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 502are in fluid communication with one another through elongated dampingpassage 448 and any associated ports or passages. As such, it may bedesirable to maintain spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 502 influidic isolation with respect to an external atmosphere ATM. In suchcases, gas damper assembly GD1 substantially fluid-tight seals can beformed in any suitable manner between end member 400 and components ofthe gas damper assembly and/or between two or more components of gasdamper assembly GD1. For example, one or more sealing elements 580 canbe fluidically disposed between inner side wall portion 414 of endmember wall 406 and housing sleeve 504 such that a substantiallyfluid-tight seal is formed therebetween. It will be appreciated thatsealing elements 580 can be secured on, along or otherwise between suchcomponents in any suitable manner. For example, one or more annulargrooves 582 can extend into inner side wall portion 414 from alonginside surface 418 thereof that are dimensioned to receive and retainthe sealing elements. As another example, one or more sealing elements584 can be fluidically disposed between side wall portion 562 of end capwall 552 and housing sleeve 504 such that a substantially fluid-tightseal is formed therebetween. It will be appreciated that sealingelements 584 can be secured on, along or otherwise between suchcomponents in any suitable manner. For example, one or more annulargrooves 586 can extend into side wall portion 562 from along inner sidesurface 568 thereof that are dimensioned to receive and retain thesealing elements.

Additionally, end cap wall 552 can include one or more passages 588formed therethrough. Passages 588 can be oriented in approximatealignment with axis AX. Additionally, in a preferred arrangement,passages 588 can be disposed in approximate alignment with securementdevices 428 of boss wall portions 426 on end member 400. In such case,securement devices 590 (e.g., threaded fasteners) can extend throughpassages 588 and into engagement with securement devices 428 to attachand secure end cap 550 on or along at least one of end member 400 andhousing sleeve 504.

In some cases, one or more jounce bumpers can be included to inhibitcontact between one or more features and/or components of assembly AS1.For example, a jounce bumper 592 can be disposed within a portion ofdamping chamber 502, such as by securement on or along second outersurface portion 536 of support ring 532, for example, to substantiallyinhibit contact between a component of damper rod assembly 600 and oneor more of end member 400, end plate 516 and support ring 532 during afull rebound condition of assembly AS1. Additionally, or in thealternative, a jounce bumper 594 can be disposed within a portion ofdamping chamber 502, such as by securement on or along a component ofdamper rod assembly 600, for example, to substantially inhibit contactbetween components of the damper rod assembly and end cap 550 and/or endplate 572 during a full jounce condition of assembly AS1.

Damper rod assembly 600 includes an elongated damper rod 602 and adamper piston 604. Damper rod 602 extends longitudinally from an end 606to an end 608. End 606 of damper rod 602 can include a securementfeature dimensioned for operatively connecting the damper rod on oralong end member 300. As one example, damper rod 602 can include one ormore helical threads disposed along end 606. Damper piston 604 can bedisposed along end 608 of damper rod 602 and can be attached orotherwise connected thereto in any suitable manner. For example, thedamper piston could be integrally formed with the damper rod. As anotherexample, end 608 of damper rod 602 could include a securement feature,such as one or more helical threads, for example. In such case, damperpiston 604 could be provided separately and could include a passage orhole (not numbered) into which end 608 of damper rod 602 can be secured.In a preferred arrangement, a blind passage or hole can be used toassist in maintaining fluidic isolation across damper piston 604.

In an assembled condition, damper rod assembly 600 is disposed along gasspring assembly GS1 such that damper piston 604 is received withindamping chamber 502 of damper housing 500. In such case, damper rod 602can extend through the passage 542 formed by support ring 532 and suchthat end 606 of damper rod 602 is disposed out of damping chamber 502.In such cases, support ring 532 can function as a bearing or bushingelement operative to reduce frictional engagement on or along damper rod602. In some cases, a sealing element (not shown) and/or a wear bushing(not shown) can optionally be included on or along the support ring.

Additionally, it will be appreciated that damper piston 604 separatesdamping chamber 502 into damping chamber portions 502A and 502B disposedalong opposing sides of the damper piston. In some cases, a sealingelement 610 can be disposed between an outer peripheral wall 612 ofdamper piston 604 and inner surface 514 of housing sleeve 504. It willbe recognized, however, that in some cases significant frictional forcesmay be generated by the sealing arrangements described above inconnection with the interface between damper piston 604 and innersurface 514 as well as in connection with the interface between an outersurface 614 of damper rod 602 and support ring 532. In some cases, itmay be desirable to avoid or at least reduce such frictional forces (orfor other reasons) by forgoing the use of sealing elements along eitheror both interfaces. In such cases, one or more friction reducingbushings or wear bands can, optionally, be disposed therebetween.Furthermore, in some cases, damper rod 602 can take the form of a hollowrod that includes an inner surface 616.

It will be appreciated, that the movement of associated structuralcomponents relative to one another, as described above, can be due tovariations in load conditions and/or result from road inputs and/orother impact conditions (e.g., jounce conditions), as is well understoodby those of skill in the art. Additionally, it will be recognized andappreciated that gas spring and gas damper assemblies, such as assemblyAS1, for example, and/or components thereof will typically move relativeto one another in a curvilinear, rotational, arcuate, angular or othernon-linear manner. As such, a pivotal mount, such as elastomeric bushing558, for example, can be used to permit some movement of gas spring andgas damper assembly AS1 relative to lower structural component LSC. Inmany cases, a gas spring is also capable of accommodating non-linearmovement of the upper and lower structural components relative to oneanother. However, in constructions in which an elongated damping rod orother similar component extends through the spring chamber andoperatively connects the end members of the gas spring, a mountingassembly can be included that permits pivotal motion between at leastone of the end members and the elongated damping rod to accommodate thenon-linear movement of the associated structural components relative toone another.

One example of an end mount assembly 700 is shown in FIGS. 7 and 9 asbeing secured along end member 300 and operatively connected to end 606of elongated damper rod 602. End mount assembly 700 can include amounting bracket 702 that can be secured on or along end member 300 in asuitable manner. For example, mounting bracket 702 can operativelyengage section 322 of mounting studs 312 and can be secured thereon bysuitable securement devices, such as threaded fasteners 704 operativelyengaging helical threads 324, for example. Mounting bracket 702 can atleast partially define a mounting cavity 706 with end member 300. Endmount assembly 700 can also include an inner mounting element 708dimensioned for securement on or along end 606 of damper rod 602. Itwill be appreciated that inner mounting element 708 can be of anysuitable size, shape and/or configuration. As one example, innermounting element 708 can include an element wall 710 with a connectorportion 712 dimensioned for securement to the damper rod and a flangeportion 714 projecting radially outward from connector portion 712.Flange portion 714 has a first side 716 facing toward connection portion712 and a second side 718 facing away from the connector portion andtoward end member 300.

End mount assembly 700 can include a first plurality of bushing elements720 disposed along first side 716 of flange portion 714 of the innermounting element. In a preferred arrangement, bushing elements 720 aredisposed in peripherally-spaced relation to one another about axis AXand/or about first side 716 of flange portion 714. End mount assembly700 can also include a second plurality of bushing elements 722 disposedalong second side 718 of flange portion 714 of the inner mountingelement. Again, in a preferred arrangement, bushing elements 722 aredisposed in peripherally-spaced relation to one another about axis AXand/or about second side 718 of the flange portion of the inner mountingelement. In a preferred arrangement, a common quantity of bushingelements 720 and 722 can be used with the bushing elements disposed inan approximately uniform spacing or pattern about axis AX and/or alongthe respective side of the flange portion of inner mounting element 708.Additionally, in a preferred arrangement, bushing elements 720 and 722can be arranged on opposing sides of flange portion 714 in aninterleaved or otherwise alternating pattern or configuration withrespect to one another. It will be appreciated, however, that otherconfigurations and/or arrangements could alternately be used.

In some cases, end mount assembly 700 can, optionally, include a thirdplurality of bushing elements 724 disposed along one side of the flangeportion of the inner mounting element. In the arrangement shown in FIGS.7 and 9, for example, bushing elements 724 are disposed along secondside 718 of flange portion 714. Bushing elements 724 are shown as beingdisposed in peripherally-spaced relation with one another about axis AXand/or along the second side of the flange portion. Additionally,bushing elements 724 are shown as being positioned radially inwardrelative to bushing elements 722 with bushing elements 724 interleavedor otherwise disposed between adjacent ones of bushing elements 722.

It will be appreciated that bushing elements 720 and 722 as well asbushing elements 724, if included, can be formed from any suitablematerial or combination of materials. In a preferred arrangement,bushing elements 720 and 722 as well as bushing elements 724, ifincluded, can be formed from an elastomeric material, such as a naturalrubber, a synthetic rubber and/or a thermoplastic elastomer. As oneexample, such an elastomeric material could have a Shore A durometerwithin a range of approximately 50 to approximately 90.

It will be appreciated that bushing elements 720 and 722 as well asbushing elements 724, if included, can be secured on or along flangeportion 714 of inner mounting element 708 in any suitable manner. Insome cases, one or more of the bushing elements can be removablyattached to the flange portion of the inner mounting element. In apreferred arrangement, however, some or all of bushing elements 720 and722 as well as bushing elements 724, if provided, can be permanentlyattached (i.e., inseparable without damage, destruction or materialalteration of at least one of the component parts) to flange portion714. It will be appreciated that such permanent joints or connectionscan be formed by way of any one or more processes and/or can include theuse of one or more treatments and/or materials. Non-limiting examples ofsuitable processes can include molding, adhering, curing and/orvulcanizing processes.

In some cases, bushing elements 720 and 722 as well as bushing elements724, if included, can be disposed within one or more pockets or recessesformed within the inner mounting element. In such cases, the combinationof bushing elements and recess walls can be configured to provide adesired combination of spring rate, deflection and/or other performancecharacteristics. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, innermounting element 708 can include a first plurality of recesses 726 thatextend into flange portion 714 from along first side 716. In a preferredarrangement, recesses 726 are dimensioned to receive and engage bushingelements 720. Additionally, or in the alternative, inner mountingelement 708 can include a second plurality of recesses 728 can extendinto flanged portion 714 from along second side 718. In a preferredarrangement, recesses 728 are dimensioned to receive and engage bushingelements 722.

Additionally, in a preferred arrangement, the quantity of recesses 726and 728 can, at a minimum, correspond to the quantity of bushingelements 720 and 722 included in end mount assembly 700. Furthermore,recesses 726 and 728 can be disposed in an approximately uniform spacingor pattern about axis AX and/or along the respective side of the flangeportion of inner mounting element 708. Further still, in a preferredarrangement, recesses 726 and 728 can be arranged on opposing sides offlange portion 714 in an interleaved or otherwise alternating pattern orconfiguration with respect to one another, as discussed above inconnection with bushing elements 720 and 722. It will be appreciated,however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternatelybe used.

During use, end mount assembly 700 can permit damper rod 602 to pivot orotherwise move by displacing inner mounting element 708 relative tomounting bracket 702. Such movement of inner mounting element 708 cancompress one or more of bushing elements 720 into abutting engagementwith mounting bracket 702 and can urge one or more of bushing elements722 into abutting engagement with end member 300. As displacement ofinner mounting element 708 by damper rod 602 increases, bushing elements720 and 722 begin to compress. As the compression continues to increase,one or more of bushing elements 724 can also contact end member 300thereby increasing the spring rate and/or reducing further deflection ofinner mounting element relative to mounting bracket 702.

Another example of a gas spring and gas damper assembly AS2, such as maybe suitable for use as one or more of gas spring and gas damperassemblies 102 in FIG. 1, for example, is shown in FIGS. 23-28. Gasspring and gas damper assembly AS2 is shown as including a gas spring(or gas spring assembly) GS2, such as may correspond to one of gassprings 104 in FIG. 1, for example, and a gas damper (or gas damperassembly) GD2, such as may correspond to one of gas dampers 106 in FIG.1, for example. Gas spring assembly GS2 and gas damper assembly GD2 canbe operatively secured to one another and fluidically coupled with oneanother in any suitable manner, such as is described hereinafter, forexample. A longitudinal axis AX extends lengthwise along assembly AS2,as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.

Gas spring assembly GS2 can include a flexible spring member 200, suchas has been previously described in detail, that can extend peripherallyaround axis AX and can be secured between opposing end members (or endmember assemblies) 300, such as has been previously described in detail,and 800 in a substantially fluid-tight manner such that a spring chamber202 is at least partially defined therebetween. Gas damper assembly GD2can include a damper housing 900 that is operatively supported on oralong end member 800 and a damper rod assembly 600, such as has beenpreviously described in detail, that is operatively associated withdamper housing 900. An end mount 700, such as has been previouslydescribed in detail, can operatively connect damper rod assembly 600with end member 300.

End member 800 can extend lengthwise between opposing ends 802 and 804that are axially spaced from one another. End member 800 can include anend member wall 806 that can have a first or outer side wall portion 808that extends in a generally axial direction and includes an outsidesurface 810 and an inside surface 812. End member 800 can also include asecond or inner side wall portion 814 that also extends in a generallyaxial direction. Inner side wall portion 814 is spaced radially inwardfrom outer side wall portion 808 and includes an outside surface 816 andan inside surface 818. In a preferred arrangement, inside surface 818 ofinner side wall portion 814 can at least partially define an innercavity 820 within end member 800.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 23-28, end member 800 includes anouter cavity 822 extending into the end member between inside surface812 of outer side wall portion 808 and outside surface 816 of inner sidewall portion 814. In some cases, one or more support wall portions 824can extend between and operatively interconnect the outer and inner sidewall portions. End member wall 806 can also include an end wall portion826 that can extend across and/or between any combination of one or moreof outer side wall portion 808, inner side wall portion 814 and/orsupport wall portions 824. End wall portion 826 can be orientedtransverse to axis AX and can at least partially form a closed end ofinner cavity 820 of the end member. Additionally, end wall portion 826can include opposing surfaces 828 and 830. End member wall 806 can alsoinclude one or more engagement features disposed on or along end member800, such as along end 804 thereof. As one example, one or more receiverwall portions 832 can extend radially inward from along outer side wallportion 808 adjacent end 804. It will be appreciated that in someconstructions a single, annular receiver wall portion could be provided.Alternately, a plurality of peripherally-spaced receiver wall portionscould be included. In either case, the one or more receiver wallportions can at least partially define a retaining shoulder or shouldersurface portion 834 oriented transverse to axis AX and facing toward end802 of end member 800.

As indicated above, it will be appreciated that the one or more endmembers of the gas spring and gas damper assembly can be operativelyconnected or otherwise secured to the flexible spring member in anysuitable manner. In the case of end member 800, end member wall 806 can,for example, include an outer mounting surface 836 that extendsperipherally about axis AX and is dimensioned to receive mounting bead216 disposed along end 208 of the flexible wall 204 such that asubstantially fluid-tight seal can be formed therebetween, such as hasbeen described above. In an assembled condition, outer surface 210 offlexible wall 204 can be disposed in abutting engagement with outsidesurface 810 of outer side wall portion 808. In such an arrangement,flexible wall 204 of flexible spring member 200 can form a rolling lobe220 along outside surface 810 of outer side wall portion 808. As gasspring and gas damper assembly AS2 is displaced between compressed andextended conditions, rolling lobe 220 can be displaced along outersurface 810 in a generally conventional manner.

With reference, now, to gas damper assembly GD2, damper housing 900 isoperatively engaged with end member 800 and at least partially defines adamping chamber 902 on, along and/or within at least a portion of endmember 800. Additionally, damper housing 900 can be secured on or alongend member 900 such that forces and loads acting on one of upper andlower structural components USC and LSC can be transmitted or otherwisecommunicated to the other of upper and lower structural components USCand LSC at least partially through gas spring and gas damper assemblyAS2.

Damper housing 900 can include or be otherwise formed from anycombination of one or more components and/or devices. For example,damper housing 900 can include a housing sleeve 904 that can be at leastpartially formed from a sleeve wall 906 that extends axially betweenopposing ends 908 and 910. Sleeve wall 906 can include a side wallportion 906S that extends peripherally about axis AX and an end wallportion 906E that is oriented transverse to axis AX. In a preferredarrangement, side wall portion 906S can at least partially define anopening (not numbered) along end 908 and end wall portion 906E cansubstantially-entirely close end 910 of the housing sleeve.Additionally, in some cases, side wall portion 906E can have anapproximately circular cross-sectional profile such that the innersleeve is approximately cylindrical in overall shape. It will beappreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangementscould alternately be used. Additionally, side wall portion 906S ofsleeve wall 906 can include an outer surface 912 that extendssubstantially-continuously around and along housing sleeve 904. In apreferred arrangement, at least side wall portion 906S of sleeve wall906 can be dimensioned to be received within inner cavity 820 of endmember 800 with outer surface 912 disposed in facing relation to insidesurface 818 of inner side wall portion 814. Side wall portion 906S ofsleeve wall 906 can also include an inner surface 914 that extendssubstantially-continuously around and along housing sleeve 904 and canat least partially define damping chamber 902.

As discussed above in connection with assembly AS1, gas spring and gasdamper assembly AS2 is displaceable, during use in normal operation,between extended and compressed conditions. During such displacementpressurized gas flow between spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 902through an elongated damping passage, such as passage 448 describedabove, can generate pressurized gas damping. In cases in which thecross-sectional profile of the elongated damping passage can be endlessor otherwise fully enclosed such that the corresponding elongateddamping passage is substantially-entirely embedded within the end wallportion of the end member wall. In other cases, the cross-sectionalprofile of the elongated damping passage can be open or otherwise notfully enclosed. In such cases, damper housing 900 can include an endplate 916 that can extend across and at least partially enclose theelongated damping passage, such as has been described above in detail inconnection with end member 400 and damper housing 500.

Damper housing 900 can also include a base 918 operatively disposedalong end 910 of housing sleeve 904 and secured to end member 800 suchthat gas spring and gas damper assembly AS2 can function to transferforces and loads between upper and lower structural components USC andLSC, as discussed above. Base 918 can be configured to secure gas springand gas damper assembly AS2 on or along an associated structuralcomponent, such as lower structural component LSC, for example. It willbe appreciated any suitable combination of feature, elements and/orcomponents can be used to form such a connection. As one example, base918 can include a base wall portion 920 that includes a pivotal mountingsurface portion 922 that at least partially defines a passage (notnumbered) formed through base wall portion 920 that is orientedgenerally transverse to axis AX. In a preferred arrangement, base wallportion 920 is formed from a material that has properties sufficient forpivotal mounting surface portion 922 to function as an outer race for aspherical bearing assembly 924 formed along base 918. In which case, aspherical bearing element 926 can be disposed within the passage formedby pivotal mounting surface portion 922. Spherical bearing element 926can include an outer surface portion (not numbered) disposed in abuttingengagement with pivotal mounting surface portion 922 and an innersurface portion 928 that at least partially defines a passage throughthe spherical bearing element. In some cases, spherical bearing assembly924 can, optionally, include inner support elements 930 and/or sealingelements 932 disposed in operative association with spherical bearingelement 926.

Base 918 can include an end wall portion 934 oriented approximatelytransverse to axis AX and a side wall portion 936 that extends axiallyfrom along end wall portion 934 toward a distal edge 938. End wallportion 934 can have an end surface 940 and side wall portion 936 canhave an inner side surface 942. End wall portion 934 and side wallportion 936 can at least partially define a base cavity 944 that isdimensioned to receive end 910 of housing sleeve 904 with outer surface912 disposed in facing relation to inner side surface 942 and end wallportion 906E facing toward end surface 940 of end wall portion 934. In apreferred arrangement, base 918 can include one or more securementfeatures disposed on or along side wall portion 936 toward distal edge938 thereof that are operative to engage and secure base 918 on or alongend member 800. As one example, one or more retaining fingers 946 canproject axially from along side wall portion 936 toward a cantileveredfree end 948 having shoulder or shoulder surface portion 950 dimensionedto abuttingly engage shoulder surface portions 834 of receiver wallportions 832 of end member 800.

In some cases, a plurality of retaining fingers 946 can be used, such asmay be disposed in peripherally-spaced relation to one another aboutlongitudinal axis AX, for example. In an assembled condition of endmember 800 and base 918, the end member and the base can be oriented inapproximate alignment with one another (e.g., in approximately coaxialrelation). Additionally, in an assembled condition, the end member andbase can be positioned relative to one another in an axial directionsuch that such that receiver wall portion(s) 832 and retaining finger(s)946 are axially co-extensive with one another. In this manner, the endmember and the base can be secured together in an assembled condition inwhich inner cavity 820 and base cavity 944 at least partially form anassembly cavity (not numbered) that can be substantially contiguous andwithin which housing sleeve 904 can be substantially entirelyencapsulated or otherwise contained. In some cases, outer side wallportion 808 of end member 800 can include a protective skirt wallportion 838 (FIG. 28) that extends axially beyond receiver wall portions832 a distance sufficient to at least partially cover retaining fingers946, such as to substantially inhibit inadvertent biasing of theretaining fingers in a radially inward direction.

In a preferred arrangement, spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 902are in fluid communication with one another through the elongateddamping passage (e.g., passage 448) and any associated ports orpassages. As such, it may be desirable to maintain spring chamber 202and damping chamber 902 in fluidic isolation with respect to an externalatmosphere ATM. In such cases, gas damper assembly GD2 can include oneor more substantially fluid-tight seals that can be formed in anysuitable manner between end member 800 and components of the gas damperassembly and/or between two or more components of gas damper assemblyGD2. For example, one or more sealing elements 952 can be fluidicallydisposed between inner side wall portion 814 of end member wall 806,side wall portion 936 of base 918 and/or outer surface 912 of housingsleeve 904 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formedtherebetween. It will be appreciated that sealing elements 952 can besecured on, along or otherwise between such components in any suitablemanner.

Gas spring devices, such as are used in suspension systems of vehicles,for example, generally designed to operate at a predetermined designpressure and a predetermined design height, as is well understood in theart. Additionally, such gas spring devices generally operate at acertain spring rate for a given load and corresponding design height orposition of the gas spring. In some applications, a first spring ratemay be preferred for most operating conditions with a second spring ratedesired for certain other conditions of use. For example, it may bedesirable for a gas spring of a suspension system of a vehicle tooperate at a first spring rate during normal-to-moderately rough drivingconditions but at a second, reduced spring rate upon experiencing harshimpacts, such as may be associated with incurring a discontinuity in theroadway surface (e.g., a pothole), for example. In many cases, adistinction can be made with respect to driving conditions as a functionof the magnitude with which suspension system components are acceleratedin a direction transverse to the direction of travel (e.g., downwardtoward or upward away from a road surface). Inertia-actuated valveassemblies in accordance with the subject matter of the presentdisclosure can be used in connection with gas spring assemblies, gasspring and damper assemblies and/or gas spring and gas damper assembliesto provide dual spring rate functionality for high-acceleration eventswhile retaining otherwise conventional performance characteristics thatmay be desirable under normal-to-moderate driving conditions. As anon-limiting example, high-acceleration events can include displacementsin a generally vertical direction that occur at an acceleration ofgreater than at least approximately 2.5 times the nominal accelerationdue to gravity (i.e., 32.2 feet per second squared). In some cases, ahigh-acceleration threshold value of greater than at least approximately3 times the nominal acceleration due to gravity can be used.

As shown in FIGS. 29-33, an inertia-actuated valve assembly 1000 inaccordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can beoperatively disposed between a spring chamber (e.g., spring chambers 202of gas spring assemblies GS1 and/or GS2) and another gas volume (e.g.,damping chambers 502 and/or 902 respectively of gas damper assembliesGD1 and GD2). It will be appreciated that an inertia-actuated valveassembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosurecan be operatively disposed between any two of the foregoing and/orother gas chambers in any suitable manner. For example, aninertia-actuated valve assembly in accordance with the subject matter ofthe present disclosure could be formed as a part one or more wallsand/or wall portions of one of end members 400 and/or 800, for example.For example, one of the walls or wall portions of the end member couldat least partially form a valve housing or other component of aninertia-actuated valve. In the alternative, an inertia-actuated valveassembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosurecould be provided separately, and operatively disposed on or along oneor more walls and/or wall portions of one of end members 400 and/or 800,for example. As a non-limiting example, the valve assembly could besecured on one of the end members in fluid communication between thespring and end member chambers.

During use, inertia-actuated valve assembly 1000 can be maintained in anormally-closed condition in a suitable manner, such as by way of one ormore biasing elements acting thereon, for example. The valve assemblycan open when the associated suspension system experiences anacceleration that meets or exceeds a predetermined accelerationthreshold at or above which the inertia-actuated valve assembly isconfigured to open. More specifically, the acceleration acting on acorresponding valve mass generates an acceleration force that overcomesthe force of the biasing element(s) that maintain the valve assembly ina normally-closed condition. As discussed above, such high-accelerationevents can include acceleration values from at least approximately 2.5times the nominal acceleration due to gravity to as much asapproximately 15 times the acceleration due to gravity or more, andoften induce or are otherwise coupled with large suspension movements.This is in comparison to relative to acceleration levels experienced bysuspension system components during normal-to-moderately rough drivingconditions, which commonly experience acceleration levels significantlyless than 2 times the nominal acceleration due to gravity and undergosubstantially smaller suspension movements.

An inertia-actuated valve assembly in accordance with the subject matterof the present disclosure will preferably have a high flow rate in theopen condition to allow rapid transfer of gas from one chamber toanother under high-acceleration conditions, such as have been describedabove. In particular, such inertia-actuated valve assemblies (e.g.,valve assembly 1000) can be beneficial when used in connection with gasspring assemblies that have relatively high spring rates for largeaccelerations and/or movements as well as gas spring and gas damperassemblies that utilize elongated damping passages to generatepressurized gas damping. Non-limiting examples can include suspensionsystem 100 and gas spring and gas damper assemblies AS1 and AS2. In somecases, an inertia-actuated valve assembly in accordance with the subjectmatter of the present disclosure could be used between an existing gasspring chamber and another volume, such as an existing end member ordamping chamber, for example.

In some cases, gas spring and gas damper assemblies in accordance withthe subject matter of the present disclosure can include one or moreinertia-actuated valve assemblies (e.g., valve assembly 1000) as well asone or more elongated damping passages (e.g., passage 448). In somecases, such gas spring assemblies, gas spring and damper assembliesand/or gas spring and gas damper assemblies in accordance with thesubject matter of the present disclosure can include one or more of avariety of other, optional features and/or components, such as guiderods, electronic sensors, electronic flow control devices and structuralfeatures (e.g., ribs and gussets). In some cases, an inertia-actuatedvalve assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the presentdisclosure can have an annular overall shape and/or configuration thatcan envelope one or more of the foregoing and/or other features. Aninertia-actuated valve assembly in accordance with the subject matter ofthe present disclosure can also be operative to maximize or otherwisepromote gas transfer through the valve assembly in an open condition aswell as permit packaging of the foregoing and/or other features and/orcomponents within or in operative association with the valve assembly.

One example of an inertia-actuated valve assembly 1000 in accordancewith the subject matter of the present disclosure is shown in FIGS.29-35. It will be appreciated that such inertia-actuated valves are, inan installed condition, disposed in fluid communication between twopressurized gas chambers. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 32-35, forexample, inertia-actuated valve assembly 1000 is illustrated as beingfluidically disposed between spring chamber 202 and end member ordamping chambers 502/902. Additionally, as described above, valveassembly 1000 can, in some cases, be provided separate and apart fromthe other features and/or components of the associated gas spring device(e.g., separately from end members 400/800). In such cases, theinertia-actuated valve assembly can be secured on or along any one ormore walls and/or wall portions of an associated end member or other gasspring component in any suitable manner. Additionally, in such cases, avalve assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the presentdisclosure can have an approximately annular shape and/or configurationthat approximates an annular recess or opening of an end member intowhich the valve assembly can at least partially fit. In other cases, oneor more features and/or components of inertia-actuated valve assembly1000 can be formed in, on or otherwise as a part of one or more wallsand/or wall portions of the associated end member. Whether provided as aseparate component or as portion of an end member, valve assembly 1000can include a valve housing and a valve body that is at least partiallyreceived within the valve housing. In representing both the constructionin which the valve assembly is a separate component and the constructionthat is formed as a part of an associated end member, the valve housingis identified in FIGS. 29-35 by reference numbers that respectivelyrepresent valve housing 1002 as a separate component and valve housing406 and 806 as portions of end member walls. For purposes of clarity andease or reading, valve housing is referred to hereinafter in connectionwith item number 1002. However, it is to be recognized and appreciatedthat reference to valve housings 406 and/or 806 are equally applicable.

Valve assembly 1000 has a longitudinal axis AX, and valve housing 1002extends peripherally about the longitudinal axis to an outer sidesurface portion 1004 that can, in some cases, at least partially definean outer peripheral extent of the inertia-actuated valve assembly, suchas when provided as a separate component, for example. Valve housing1002 can have an end surface portion 1006 disposed along a side 1008 ofthe valve assembly and an end surface portion 1010 disposed along a side1012 of the valve assembly. Valve housing 1002 can also include one ormore securement features 1014 disposed thereon or therealong, such asone or more helical threads, for example. Valve housing 1002 can furtherinclude a groove 1016 that extends into the valve housing from alongside 1012 such that the groove has an open end 1018 disposed along endsurface portion 1010. In some cases, the groove can have extend onlypart way around the periphery of longitudinal axis AX such that thegroove will have opposing groove ends. In other cases, groove 1016 cantake the form of an endless, annular groove that extends peripherallyabout axis AX. Additionally, it will be appreciated that groove 1016 canhave any suitable cross-sectional shape, profile and/or configuration.For example, groove 1016 can be at least partially defined by across-sectional profile that includes one or more side surface portions,such as side surface portions 1020A and 1020B, for example, that extendinto the valve housing from along open end 1018. Groove 1016 can also beat least partially defined by a cross-sectional profile that includesone or more end surface portions 1022, 1024 and/or 1026, for example,that can, in some cases, be disposed in axially-offset relation to oneanother and at least partially define one or more shoulder wall portions(not numbered) of valve housing within groove 1016.

Inertia-actuated valve assemblies in accordance with the subject matterof the present disclosure, such as valve assembly 1000, for example, caninclude one or more passages disposed in fluid communication with groove1016. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 29-35, for example, one or morepassages 1028 can extend into valve housing 1002 from along side 1008.As a non-limiting example, the one or more passages can be disposed orotherwise extend peripherally around axis AX and can, in some cases, bethe size, shape and/or configuration of one or more elongated, arcuateslots. If a plurality of passages 1028 are included, the passages can bedisposed in peripherally-spaced relation to one another about axis AX.Passages 1028 can extend into valve housing 1002 from along end surfaceportion 1006 into fluid communication with groove 1016. In this manner,a fluid communication pathway or flow path can extend throughinertia-actuated valve assembly 1000 in an open condition thereof, suchas is represented by arrow PTH in FIGS. 34 and 35, for example. Passages1028 can be of any suitable size, shape and/or configuration, and canhave any suitable cross-sectional shape, profile and/or configuration.For example, the one or more passages can be at least partially definedby a cross-sectional profile that includes one or more side surfaceportions 1030A and 1030B that extend from along an open end 1032disposed along side 1008 toward an end surface portion 1034. In somecases, the one or more side surfaces portions and/or end surface portioncan at least partially define one or more shoulder wall portions (notnumbered) of valve housing within groove 1016.

As described above, inertia-actuated valve assemblies in accordance withthe subject matter of the present disclosure (e.g., valve assemblies1000) can be used in connection with gas spring assemblies, gas springand damper assemblies and/or gas spring and gas damper assemblies. Inthe case of gas spring and gas damper assemblies, inertia-actuated valveassemblies in accordance with the subject matter of the presentdisclosure can, optionally, include one or more elongated dampingpassages such as may be operative to generate pressurized gas damping aspressurized gas flows through the inertia-actuated valve assemblybetween a spring chamber (e.g., spring chamber 202) and an associatedsecond chamber (e.g., end member or damping chamber 502/902). Ifprovided, an elongated damping passage 1036 can extend into, through orotherwise along at least a portion of valve housing 1002 of valveassembly 1000. In a preferred arrangement, however, the elongateddamping passage, if provided, can extend into, through or otherwisealong the valve housing in fluidic isolation from fluid communicationpathway The elongated damping passage can have a first end 1038 disposedin fluid communication with spring chamber 202 and a second end 1040disposed in fluid communication with an associated second chamber, suchas one of end member or damping chambers 502/902, for example. In apreferred arrangement, the valve housing will have a maximumcross-sectional dimension (e.g., an outermost diameter), and theelongated damping passage extending therethrough will have a passagelength that is greater than the maximum cross-sectional dimension of thevalve housing.

Additionally, it will be appreciated that elongated damping passage 1036can be of any suitable shape, form, configuration and/or arrangement. Insome cases, elongated damping passage 1036 can have a spiral-like orsimilar configuration. In such cases, the elongated damping passage canbe at least partially formed by a passage surface 1042 that has across-sectional profile. In some cases, the cross-sectional profile canvary along the length of the elongated damping passage. In other cases,however, the cross-sectional profile can be of an approximately uniformsize, shape and configuration along the length of the elongated dampingpassage, such as is shown in FIGS. 7-10, 16-18 and 32-35, for example.The cross-sectional profile is taken from an orientation that is normal,perpendicular or at least transverse to the spiral-like path of theelongated damping passage. That is, the cross-sectional profile isoriented transverse to axis AX and is substantially-continuously rotatedabout the axis with the cross-sectional profilesubstantially-continuously displaced radially outward from adjacent axisAX to form the spiral-like configuration. In a preferred arrangement,such rotation of the cross-sectional profile of passage surface 1042 canoccur in an approximately single plane such that the spiral-likeconfiguration of elongated damping passage 1036 is disposed in a commonplane that is oriented transverse to longitudinal axis AX.

In some cases, the cross-sectional profile of passage surface 1042 canbe endless or otherwise fully enclosed (e.g., within valve housing 1002and/or a portion of end member walls 406/806). In such cases, thecorresponding elongated damping passage can be substantially-entirelyembedded within the valve housing and/or the portion of the end memberwall. In other cases, the cross-sectional profile of passage surface1042 can be open (i.e., not fully enclosed). In such cases, thecorresponding elongated damping passage can be open along one or moresurfaces of valve housing 1002. For example, valve housing 1002 can,optionally, include an end surface portion 1044 disposed along side 1008in offset relation to end surface portion 1006 such that a recess isformed along side 1008 of the valve housing. As a non-limiting example,the cross-sectional profile of passage surface 1042 is shown as havingan approximately U-shaped cross-sectional configuration. As such,elongated damping passage 1036 is formed as an open channel that isaccessible from along end surface portion 1044. It will be appreciated,however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternatelybe used. For example, a cross-sectional profile having semi-circular,V-shaped and/or C-shaped configurations could alternately be used. Incases in which the cross-sectional profile of elongated damping passage1036 is open or otherwise not fully enclosed, an end or cover plate 1046can extend across end surface portion 1044 to at least partially encloseelongated damping passage 1036. In such cases, an opening 1048 can beprovided in cover plate 1046 such that first end 1038 of the elongateddamping passage can be disposed in fluid communication with springchamber 202 through opening 1048. In some cases, a port or passage 1050can, optionally, extend through valve housing 1002 such that fluidcommunication between a spring chamber (e.g., spring chamber 202) and anassociated second chamber (e.g., end member or damping chamber 502/902)can occur therethrough. In a preferred arrangement, elongated dampingpassage 1036, if provided, and/or passage 1050, if provided, arefluidically isolated from fluid communication pathway PTH that is atleast partially formed by groove 1016 and passages 1028. That is,elongated damping passage 1036, if provided, and/or passage 1050, ifprovided, are disposed in fluid communication between spring chamber 202and end member or damping chamber 502/902 even in a closed condition ofvalve assembly 1000.

An inertia-actuated valve assembly in accordance with the subject matterof the present disclosure, such as valve assembly 1000, for example, caninclude one or more valve bodies that are displaceable relative to thevalve housing. During use, the valve body is biased into and retained ina position that results in the valve assembly being closed such that theassociated spring chamber (e.g., spring chamber 202) and the associatedsecond chamber (e.g., end member or damping chamber 502/902) aresubstantially isolated from one another by the valve body (e.g., throughfluid communication pathway PTH). It will be appreciated, however, thatother fluid communication channels, such as one or more of elongateddamping passage 1036 and/or passage 1050, and remain in fluidcommunication between the associated spring and second chambers. It willbe recognized and understood that the valve body will have a valve bodymass, and that when acted upon by certain acceleration events having amagnitude below a predetermined threshold the valve body will have atendency to move with the valve housing with the inertia-actuated valveassembly remaining in the normally-closed condition. However, when actedupon by acceleration events approximately equal to or exceeding apredetermined threshold that generates a valve body force of sufficientmagnitude to overcome the biasing force urging the valve body into thenormally-closed position the valve body will have a tendency to remainin an unchanged position due at least in part to its inertia. Upon avalve body force (i.e., valve body mass multiplied by magnitude ofacceleration event) achieving sufficient magnitude to overcome thebiasing force retaining the valve body in the normally-closed condition,the valve body will have a tendency to remain in its original positionwhile the valve housing undergoes movement due to the accelerationevent. This relative displacement results in the opening of a flow path(e.g., fluid communication pathway PTH) through the inertia-actuatedvalve assembly. Upon opening, pressurized gas can flow from a chamberundergoing compression (e.g., spring chamber 202) into a chamberundergoing expansion or of fixed volume (e.g., end member or dampingchamber 502/902). Upon abatement of the acceleration event or a decreasein acceleration below the predetermined threshold, the biasing forcewill overcome the valve body force and the valve body will return to anormally-closed position.

It will be appreciated that the valve body can be of any suitable size,shape and/or configuration that is cooperative with the valve housingand/or the groove thereof. As such, the valve body can extend at leastpartially around axis AX within at least a portion of the groove. As oneexample, valve assembly 1000 can include a valve body 1052 that isdimensioned to be at least partially received within valve housing 1002,such as at least partially within groove 1016 thereof, for example.Valve body 1052 can include an end surface portion 1054 and an endsurface portion 1056 that is spaced axially from end surface portion1054. Valve body 1052 can also include a side surface portion 1058 thatcan at least partially define an inner peripheral extent of the valvebody, as well as a side surface portion 1060 that can at least partiallydefine an outer peripheral extend of the valve body. In some cases, thevalve body can, optionally, include a side surface portion 1062 that isdisposed radially between side surface portions 1058 and 1060. In suchcases, an end surface portion 1064 can be disposed in offset relation toend surface portions 1054 and 1056. End surface portion 1064 can extendbetween and operatively connect side surface portion 1062 with one ofside surface portions 1058 and 1060.

As described above, it is preferred for a valve assembly in accordancewith the subject matter of the present disclosure to be primarilyactuated or otherwise displaced from inertia of the valve body ratherthan as a result of differential pressure levels acting on opposingsurfaces of the valve body. For example, it will be appreciated thatduring an acceleration event in which the associated gas spring isundergoing a compression (i.e., a jounce condition), pressurized gaswithin spring chamber 202 will experience a dynamic pressure increasedue to a decrease in volume of the spring chamber as the opposing endmembers are displaced toward one another. Whereas, end member or dampingchambers 502/902 are constructed to have a substantially fixed volumewhich remains substantially unchanged during such jounce motion. Assuch, a dynamic pressure increase can be generated in spring chamber 202resulting in a differential pressure level between the spring chamberand end member or damping chamber 502/902. It will be appreciated thatthe differential-pressure force acting on the valve body at any giventime will be a function of the differential pressure and the area of thevalve body on which the differential pressure acts to cause displacementin the axial direction. Such area of the valve body is referred toherein as the “pressure area”, and includes one or more surface portionsoriented transverse to longitudinal axis AX, and it will be appreciatedthat it is generally desirable to minimize or at least reduce the“pressure area” to allow the valve body to remain closed whileexperiencing large differential pressure levels.

As described above, valve assembly 1000 substantially inhibitspressurized gas transfer through at least fluid communication pathwayPTH in a closed position of valve body 1052. In some cases, one or moresealing interfaces can be fluidically disposed between valve housing1002 and valve body 1052 at least in the closed position of the valvebody. Valve assembly 1000 can include sealing interfaces 1066 and 1068that are fluidically disposed between the valve housing and the valvebody, such as along and/or otherwise between one or more end surfaceportions and/or side surface portions of valve housing 1002 and valvebody 1052. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIGS. 32-35, sealinginterface 1066 can include a sealing element 1070 disposed in abuttingengagement between any combination of two or more of side surfaceportions 1020A, 1030A and/or 1058 and/or end surface portions 1022, 1044and/or 1054 in a closed position of valve body 1052. Additionally, or inthe alternative, sealing interface 1068 can include a sealing element1072 disposed in abutting engagement between any combination of two ormore of side surface portions 1020B, 1030B, 1060 and/or 1062 and/or endsurface portions 1026, 1034, 1056 and/or 1064 in a closed position ofvalve body 1052. In some cases, one or more sealing elements can beovermolded or otherwise formed or provided on or along the valve housingto at least partially form the first and second sealing interfaces.Additionally, or in the alternative, one or more sealing elements couldbe overmolded or otherwise formed or provided on or along the valvebody. In still other cases, one or more of the sealing elements can beprovided separately from the valve housing and the valve body anddisposed on or along one of the valve housing and valve body and/orotherwise positioned and retained within the groove.

Sealing interfaces 1066 and 1068 can be disposed in axially-spacedand/or radially-spaced relation to one another, such as are representedby reference dimensions ASP and RSP in FIG. 32, for example. In somecases, a radial spacing or distance between the two sealing interfacescan be used to at least approximate the exposed area of the valve bodythat is oriented transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the path of motionof valve body 1052 (i.e., in the axial direction) and which would beoperative to contribute to undesirable condition of dynamicpressure-actuation of the valve assembly. As such, it will beappreciated that it is generally desirable to minimize or at leastreduces this exposed area such that undesired actuation from dynamicpressure fluctuations can be minimized or at least reduced, such as maybe experienced during use in normal-to-moderately rough drivingconditions and having a level below a predetermined dynamic pressurethreshold. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 32-35, the total “pressurearea” of valve body 1052 can include the area of end surface portion1054 that is disposed radially outward of sealing element 1070 and thearea of end surface portion 1064 that is disposed radially inward ofsealing element 1072.

As described above, an inertia-actuated valve assembly in accordancewith the subject matter of the present disclosure (e.g., valve assembly1000) will preferably remain closed under certain predeterminedconditions of use, such as under normal-to-moderately rough drivingconditions, and will be induced to open upon experiencing accelerationevents having a magnitude greater than a predetermined accelerationthreshold. It will be appreciated that the dynamic pressure level withina gas chamber that is undergoing compression (e.g., spring chamber 202)during such a high-acceleration event will increase substantially. Assuch, it is desirable for an inertia-actuated valve assembly (e.g.,valve assembly 1000) to have a flow path (e.g., fluid communicationpathway PTH) that is as large as is practical in an open condition ofthe valve assembly to permit pressurized gas to transfer out of the gaschamber undergoing compression at a high flow rate. It will beappreciated that the minimum area through which pressurized gas can flowthrough the valve assembly is referred to herein as the “flow area”. Asone non-limiting example, the “flow area” of valve assembly 1000 caninclude the area between end surface portion 1022 of valve housing 1002and end surface portion 1054 of valve body 1052. It is generallydesirable to minimize “pressure area” while utilizing a “flow area” thatis as large as is practical. It has been determined that aninertia-actuated valve assembly in accordance with the subject matter ofthe present disclosure can have a flow area-to-pressure area ratio thatis within a range of from approximately one-half (0.5) to approximatelyfour (4). In some cases, a range of approximately three-fourths (0.75)to approximately three (3) can be used.

As discussed above, valve body 1052 is urged into and maintained in anormally-closed position of valve assembly 1000. It will be appreciatedthat any suitable combination of one or more biasing elements can beused to urge and maintain the valve body into the normally-closedposition while permitting the valve body to be displaced into an openposition upon experiencing acceleration events equal to or exceeding apredetermined acceleration threshold. In the exemplary arrangement shownin FIGS. 32-35, one or more biasing element 1074 can be operativelyengaged with valve body 1052 for urging the valve body toward andmaintaining valve assembly 1000 in a normally-closed condition. Biasingelements 1074 can have spring rates that are tuned to the mass of valvebody 1052 to allow the valve assembly to open when experiencing anacceleration event that has a magnitude approximately reaching (and/orexceeding) a predetermined acceleration threshold. That is, in apreferred arrangement, the one or more biasing elements can generate abiasing force (i.e., at least approximately equal to the sum ofindividual biasing forces from a plurality of biasing elements) actingon the valve body that has a magnitude that is greater than apredetermined dynamic gas pressure threshold value multiplied by thepressure area of the valve body, such as has been described above, forexample. As described above, the predetermined dynamic gas pressurethreshold value can correspond to an internal pressure experienced bythe associated gas spring assembly during a predetermined condition ofuse, such as a dynamic pressure spike during a high-acceleration jouncecondition, for example. The one or more biasing elements can alsogenerate a (cumulative or total) biasing force acting on the valve bodythat has a magnitude that is less than or approximately equal to thevalve body mass multiplied by two and one half (2.5) times the nominalacceleration due to gravity.

It will be appreciated that any combination of one or more biasingelements of any suitable type, kind and/or construction can be used,such as one or more coil spring elements, one or more wave springelements, one or more conical disc spring elements and/or one or moresolid elastomeric spring elements, for example. It will be appreciated,however, that biasing elements of other types, kinds and/orconstructions could alternately be used. In the arrangement shown inFIGS. 32-35, an array of biasing elements are disposed in spacedrelation to one another about longitudinal axis AX of the valveassembly. Additionally, it will be appreciated that biasing elements1074 can be retained in operative engagement with valve body 1052 in anysuitable manner, such as by way of engagement between valve body 1052and a spring retainer plate 1076, for example.

As used herein with reference to certain features, elements, componentsand/or structures, numerical ordinals (e.g., first, second, third,fourth, etc.) may be used to denote different singles of a plurality orotherwise identify certain features, elements, components and/orstructures, and do not imply any order or sequence unless specificallydefined by the claim language. Additionally, the terms “transverse,” andthe like, are to be broadly interpreted. As such, the terms“transverse,” and the like, can include a wide range of relative angularorientations that include, but are not limited to, an approximatelyperpendicular angular orientation. Also, the terms “circumferential,”“circumferentially,” and the like, are to be broadly interpreted and caninclude, but are not limited to circular shapes and/or configurations.In this regard, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” andthe like, can be synonymous with terms such as “peripheral,”“peripherally,” and the like.

Furthermore, the phrase “flowed-material joint” and the like, if usedherein, are to be interpreted to include any joint or connection inwhich a liquid or otherwise flowable material (e.g., a melted metal orcombination of melted metals) is deposited or otherwise presentedbetween adjacent component parts and operative to form a fixed andsubstantially fluid-tight connection therebetween. Examples of processesthat can be used to form such a flowed-material joint include, withoutlimitation, welding processes, brazing processes and solderingprocesses. In such cases, one or more metal materials and/or alloys canbe used to form such a flowed-material joint, in addition to anymaterial from the component parts themselves. Another example of aprocess that can be used to form a flowed-material joint includesapplying, depositing or otherwise presenting an adhesive betweenadjacent component parts that is operative to form a fixed andsubstantially fluid-tight connection therebetween. In such case, it willbe appreciated that any suitable adhesive material or combination ofmaterials can be used, such as one-part and/or two-part epoxies, forexample.

Further still, the term “gas” is used herein to broadly refer to anygaseous or vaporous fluid. Most commonly, air is used as the workingmedium of gas spring devices, such as those described herein, as well assuspension systems and other components thereof. However, it will beunderstood that any suitable gaseous fluid could alternately be used.

It will be recognized that numerous different features and/or componentsare presented in the embodiments shown and described herein, and that noone embodiment may be specifically shown and described as including allsuch features and components. As such, it is to be understood that thesubject matter of the present disclosure is intended to encompass anyand all combinations of the different features and components that areshown and described herein, and, without limitation, that any suitablearrangement of features and components, in any combination, can be used.Thus it is to be distinctly understood claims directed to any suchcombination of features and/or components, whether or not specificallyembodied herein, are intended to find support in the present disclosure.

Thus, while the subject matter of the present disclosure has beendescribed with reference to the foregoing embodiments and considerableemphasis has been placed herein on the structures and structuralinterrelationships between the component parts of the embodimentsdisclosed, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can be made andthat many changes can be made in the embodiments illustrated anddescribed without departing from the principles hereof. Obviously,modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading andunderstanding the preceding detailed description. Accordingly, it is tobe distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to beinterpreted merely as illustrative of the subject matter of the presentdisclosure and not as a limitation. As such, it is intended that thesubject matter of the present disclosure be construed as including allsuch modifications and alterations.

1. An inertia-actuated valve assembly dimensioned for securement alongan associated end member of an associated gas spring assembly, saidinertia-actuated valve assembly comprising: a valve housing dimensionedfor securement along the associated end member and in fixed relationthereto, said valve housing having a longitudinal axis and including ahousing wall portion extending peripherally about said longitudinal axiswith a first housing side and a second housing side facing opposite saidfirst housing side, said valve housing including a groove extending intohousing wall portion from along said second side such that said groovehas an open end fluidically accessible from along said second side, andsaid valve housing including at least one flow channel extending throughsaid housing wall portion and in fluid communication with said groovefrom along said first side of said valve housing; a valve body extendingperipherally about said axis and positioned within said groove of saidvalve housing such that said valve body and said valve housing areaxially co-extensive along at least a portion thereof, said valve bodyhaving a valve body mass and a pressure area; and, a biasing elementoperatively engaging at least said valve body and generating a biasingforce operative to urge said valve body in a first axial directiontoward said first side of said valve housing, said biasing force havinga magnitude that is: 1) greater than a predetermined dynamic gaspressure threshold value multiplied by said pressure area with saidpredetermined dynamic gas pressure value corresponding to an internalpressure experienced by the associated gas spring assembly during apredetermined condition of use; and, 2) less than or approximately equalto said valve body mass multiplied by two and one half (2.5) times thenominal acceleration due to gravity.
 2. An inertia-actuated valveassembly according to claim 1, wherein said valve body is axiallydisplaceable relative to said valve housing between a closed positionand an open position such that in said open position said valve assemblyhas a flow area through which pressurized gas flows with a flowarea-to-pressure area ratio within a range of from approximatelyone-half (0.5) to approximately four (4).
 3. An inertia-actuated valveassembly according to claim 2, wherein said flow area-to-pressure arearatio is within a range of from approximately three-quarters (0.75) toapproximately three (3).
 4. An inertia-actuated valve assembly accordingto claim 1, wherein said groove is an annular groove, and said valvebody has an annular shape dimensioned to be at least partially receivedwithin said annular groove.
 5. An inertia-actuated valve assemblyaccording to claim 1, wherein said biasing element is one of a pluralityof biasing elements disposed in peripherally-spaced relation to oneanother about said longitudinal axis with said biasing force being atleast approximately equal to the sum of individual biasing forces fromsaid plurality of biasing elements.
 6. An inertia-actuated valveassembly according to claim 1 further comprising a spring retainer platedisposed along said second side of said valve housing and operativelysupporting said biasing element in abutting engagement with said valvebody.
 7. An inertia-actuated valve assembly according to claim 1,wherein said valve housing has a maximum cross-sectional dimension andincludes an elongated damping passage extending therethrough in fluidcommunication between said first and second sides in fluid isolationfrom said groove, said elongated damping passage having a passage lengthgreater than said maximum cross-sectional dimension of said valvehousing.
 8. An inertia-actuated valve assembly according to claim 7,wherein said elongated damping passage has a spiral configuration with afirst passage end disposed along said first side of said valve housingand a second passage end disposed along said second side of said valvehousing.
 9. A gas spring assembly comprising: a flexible spring memberhaving a longitudinal axis and including a flexible wall extendinglongitudinally between first and second ends and peripherally about saidaxis to at least partially define a spring chamber; a first end memberoperatively secured to said first end of said flexible spring membersuch that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween; asecond end member disposed in spaced relation to said first end memberand operatively secured to said second end of said flexible springmember such that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formedtherebetween, said second end member including an end member wall thatat least partially defines an end member chamber; and, aninertia-actuated valve assembly operatively disposed in fluidcommunication between said spring chamber and said end member chamber,said inertia-actuated valve assembly including: a valve housing wallportion extending peripherally about said longitudinal axis with a firsthousing side disposed in fluid communication with said spring chamberand a second housing side disposed in fluid communication with said endmember chamber, said valve housing wall portion including a grooveextending thereinto from along said second housing side such that saidgroove has an open end fluidically accessible from along said secondhousing side, said valve housing wall portion including at least oneflow channel extending thereinto and operatively connected in fluidcommunication with said groove from along said first housing side; avalve body extending peripherally about said axis and positioned withinsaid groove of said valve housing wall portion such that said valve bodyand said valve housing wall portion are axially co-extensive along atleast a portion thereof, said valve body having a valve body mass and apressure area; and, a biasing element operatively engaging at least saidvalve body and generating a biasing force operative to urge said valvebody in a first axial direction toward said first housing side of saidvalve housing wall portion, said biasing force having a magnitude thatis: 1) greater than a predetermined dynamic gas pressure threshold valuemultiplied by said pressure area with said predetermined dynamic gaspressure value corresponding to an internal pressure experienced by saidgas spring assembly during a predetermined condition of use; and, 2)less than or approximately equal to said valve body mass multiplied bytwo and one half (2.5) times the nominal acceleration due to gravity.10. A gas spring assembly according to claim 9, wherein saidinertia-actuated valve assembly is provided separately from and securedto said second end member.
 11. A gas spring assembly according to claim9, wherein said valve housing wall portion is integrally formed as apart of said end wall portion of said second end member.
 12. A gasspring assembly according to claim 9, wherein said predetermined dynamicpressure threshold value is within a range of from approximately one andone-tenth (1.1) times to approximately two and one-quarter (2.25) timesa predetermined design pressure of said gas spring assembly.
 13. A gasspring assembly according to claim 9, wherein said at least one flowchannel includes a plurality of flow channels disposed inperipherally-spaced relation to one another about said longitudinalaxis.
 14. A gas spring assembly according to claim 9, wherein saidinertia-actuated valve assembly includes at least one sealing interfacedisposed between said valve housing wall portion and said valve bodysuch at least partially forming a substantially fluid-tight sealtherebetween in a closed condition of said valve assembly.
 15. A gasspring assembly according to claim 9, wherein said valve housing wallportion includes a first end surface portion and a first side surfaceportion, and said valve housing wall portion include a second endsurface portion and a second side surface portion respectively disposedin facing relation to said first end surface portion and said first sidesurface portion with said at least one sealing interface including asealing element disposed in abutting engagement with at least said firstand second end surface portions or at least said first and second sidesurface portions.
 16. A gas spring assembly according to claim 9,wherein said valve housing wall portion has a maximum cross-sectionaldimension and includes an elongated damping passage extendingtherethrough in fluid communication between said first and secondhousing sides in fluid isolation from said groove, said elongateddamping passage having a passage length greater than said maximumcross-sectional dimension of said valve housing.
 17. A gas springassembly according to claim 16, wherein said elongated damping passagehas a spiral configuration with a first passage end disposed along saidfirst housing side of said valve housing wall portion and a secondpassage end disposed along said second housing side of said valvehousing wall portion.
 18. A gas spring assembly according to claim 9further comprising a damper piston assembly including a damper pistonand an elongated damper rod operatively connected to said damper piston,said damper piston positioned within said end member chamber andseparating said end member chamber into first and second chamberportions, said damper rod operatively connected to said first end membersuch that upon extension and compression of said gas spring assembly,said damper piston is reciprocally displaced within said end memberchamber and pressurized gas damping is generated from at leastpressurized gas transfer between said spring chamber and said end memberchamber.
 19. A suspension system comprising: a pressurized gas systemincluding a pressurized gas source and a control device; and, at leastone gas spring assembly according to claim 9 disposed in fluidcommunication with said pressurized gas source through said controldevice such that pressurized gas can be selectively transferred into andout of at least said spring chamber.
 20. A method of manufacturing a gasspring and gas damper assembly, said method comprising: providing aflexible spring member having a longitudinal axis and including aflexible wall extending longitudinally between first and second ends andperipherally about said axis to at least partially define a springchamber; providing a first end member and securing said first end memberacross said first end of said flexible spring member such that asubstantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween; providing asecond end member that includes an end member chamber and securing saidsecond end member across said second end of said flexible spring membersuch that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween;providing an inertia-actuated valve assembly according to claim 1 andoperatively connecting said inertia-actuated valve in fluidcommunication between said spring chamber and said end member chamber.